Lenni Lenape Flag
The Lenni Lenape flag is white and bears the tribal seal in the center. Centered on the seal is a traditional Delaware mask. The mask on the Lenni Lenape flag is divided vertically into black and red halves.
The mask, represents Mesingw, the "Masked Spirit" of traditional Lenape legend . Mesingw is the guardian of the creatures of the forest. These creatures were of vital importance to all eastern tribes, they were the main source of food, much as the buffalo served the nations of the Plains. Each of the creatures was imbued with certain traits or attributes and the various clans of Woodland Indians. The Lenni Lenape tribes associated themselves with a particular animal as a clan totem or symbol.
In front of the mask of Mesingw appears a peace pipe and fire starter. The peace pipe is a widely used symbol on many Indian tribal flags since it was the ultimate greeting and bonding mechanism of tribal life in most northern cultures.
Surrounding these central devices, one each at a prime direction of the compass are symbols relevant to the Lenni Lenape people. To the north is a Christian cross, representing the history of the Christian faith within the people. To the east is a turkey claw, symbol of the Unalactigo; one of the three main divisions of the Delaware nation. To the south is a turtle for the Unami division and to the west lies a wolf paw print for the Wolf clan.
Separating these emblems are a series of bars or sticks bearing various designs. These sticks represent the prayer sticks from the Big House Church.
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